as400 operator Interview Questions and Answers

AS400 Operator Interview Questions and Answers
  1. What is an AS400 system?

    • Answer: The AS400 (now IBM i) is a family of robust, midrange computer systems known for their reliability and security, often used in business-critical applications.
  2. Explain the concept of a job queue.

    • Answer: A job queue is a list of jobs waiting to be processed by the AS400 system. Jobs are added to the queue and processed according to their priority and availability of resources.
  3. How do you monitor system performance on an AS400?

    • Answer: System performance can be monitored using tools like the Performance Tools, System Monitor, and WRKACTJOB (Work with Active Jobs) commands. These provide insights into CPU utilization, memory usage, and I/O activity.
  4. What are some common AS400 commands you use daily?

    • Answer: Common commands include WRKACTJOB (Work with Active Jobs), WRKSYSSTS (Work with System Status), DSPMSG (Display Messages), WRKSPLF (Work with Spooled Files), and various commands for managing users, libraries, and jobs.
  5. Describe your experience with spooled files.

    • Answer: Spooled files are temporary storage for output from programs and other processes. I have experience managing spooled files, including deleting unnecessary files to free up disk space, routing output to specific printers or users, and troubleshooting printing issues.
  6. How do you handle a system error or outage?

    • Answer: I would first identify the nature of the error by checking system logs and monitoring tools. Then, depending on the severity, I would escalate the issue to the appropriate support team, document the error, and implement temporary workarounds if possible. I would also prioritize restoring system functionality and minimizing downtime.
  7. What is your experience with backup and recovery procedures?

    • Answer: I have experience with various backup methods, including full, incremental, and differential backups. I understand the importance of regularly scheduling and verifying backups, and I know how to restore data from backups in case of data loss or system failure.
  8. Explain your understanding of AS400 security.

    • Answer: AS400 security involves managing user access, controlling access to data and resources using user profiles and authorities, implementing security measures such as password policies and encryption, and regularly patching the system to address vulnerabilities.
  9. How do you troubleshoot a print job that is not printing correctly?

    • Answer: I would check the spooled file for errors, verify printer connectivity and configuration, ensure the printer has enough paper and is online, inspect the print queue for any bottlenecks, and investigate the print driver settings.
  10. What is your experience with managing users and user profiles?

    • Answer: I have experience creating, modifying, and deleting user profiles, assigning appropriate authorities and passwords, and managing user groups to control access to system resources. I understand the importance of adhering to security best practices when managing users.
  11. What is the difference between a CL program and RPG program?

    • Answer: CL (Control Language) is used for system commands and task automation, while RPG (Report Program Generator) is a high-level programming language for business applications. They serve different purposes in the AS400 environment.
  12. How familiar are you with database administration on the AS400? (DB2)

    • Answer: I have experience working with DB2 for i, including creating and managing tables, indexes, and views, running queries, and performing basic database maintenance tasks.
  13. Describe your experience working with different types of AS400 output devices.

    • Answer: I've worked with various output devices, including printers (impact, laser, inkjet), and have experience configuring them for optimal performance within the AS400 environment.
  14. How do you handle situations where the system is running low on disk space?

    • Answer: I would first identify the cause of the low disk space (large files, excessive spooled files, etc.). Then, I would take corrective actions such as deleting unnecessary files, archiving old data, and potentially increasing disk space if necessary. I'd also investigate if there are any processes consuming excessive disk space.

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